Girls Basketball outperformed one of their fiercest rivals, Berkshire, on Friday, Jan. 14, leading to a commanding 41 – 21 victory.
Despite numerous victories against Berkshire in past years, more than ever the Wildcats needed a win to get them back on track for playoffs, after a rough start following their winter break return.
Senior captain Cristina Negron, from Easthampton, Mass., was happy the team had more time to prepare for the game, as their opponents were in good physical shape.
“We had more time to practice and were able to evaluate what we need to work on,” Cristina said. “They proved to be very athletic and relentless.”
Cristina noted her own team’s success in “creat[ing] many scoring opportunities for our post players and open[ing] up the perimeter for our shooting guards.”
Selena Negron, power forward, was excited the team had the opportunity to redeem themselves after losing the first game of the tournament.
More than ever, the team needed strong leadership on the court, and it was in this role that Cristina stepped up. As a captain, Cristina feels responsible for the achievements of the team, both on or off the court.
“I try my best to motivate the girls in practices before games and make sure everyone is having fun along the way,” she said.
The Negrons explained to The Willistonian their mental approach to games in general.
“I approach the game by having a positive mind and hyping up the girls so that we are excited rather than nervous,” Selena said. “Overthinking can be the biggest enemy for an athlete, so I try to do activities that keep me calm before tipoff,” Cristina added.
After going down in the first quarter, the Wildcats were able to come back thanks to a wonderful performance by 9th grader Margaret Edwards, who led the team in the first half. In the second half, the Wildcats took off, widening the gap from their opponents.
Many students enjoyed the game, in particular senior Sofia Michalski.
“I think it’s super fun to watch, especially Margaret because she shoots a lot of threes,” Sofia said. “I’m also so excited to see my little sister, Stella, already playing on the Varsity team. I’m so proud of her!”